Saturday, August 30, 2008

framed magnet board

We showed you one magnet project and we have another waiting in the wings, so we thought it was time to give you something on which to stick those magnets! Here's a tutorial for a very easy magnet board.

Magnet Board Tutorial

What you'll need:

*Any picture frame*Spray paint and newspaper (if you want to paint it--you may like it the way it is!)*Piece of sheet metal the same size or larger than your frame*Ruler or measuring tape and marking tool*Metal snips and gloves (if your sheet metal needs to be cut down)

Okay, let's get started.

This frame was on clearance at Ben Franklin for $4. It was cute, but Stacy wanted a punch of color, so she covered it with a quick coat of red spray paint. No sanding required. Then she measured the dimensions of the inside where the picture would normally go.

Next she took a piece of sheet metal, found at a local hardware store, and marked the measurements from the frame on it with a measuring tape and a Sharpie.

To trim it to the right size, use heavy metal shears. Or, ask your hardware store to cut it for you (some may do it for free, others for a nominal fee). Don't forget to bring your dimensions with you to the store!

Slip the metal into the back of the frame like you would a picture and replace the backing.

Uh, is that not the easiest magnet board in America? We know we have some international readers--can you come up with something easier than that? I highly doubt it, but send us a note if you do! This is such a great size because it can be hung on the wall or, if your frame has a stand, it's perfect to stand on a desk. Cover it with pictures or reminders and, of course, with your favorite magnets.

Look for frames at garage sales, flea markets, and thrift stores. Restyle it with a coat of paint and your magnet board will be both hip and cheap. Two of the birdies' favorite things!

This frame was 11 X 14. Yes, you probably could paint over the sheet metal, but I am not sure which paint would be best. I probably would spray paint it. Another great idea is to cover the metal in your favorite cardstock or wrapping paper. As long as it isn't too thick and the magnets can still stick. Contact paper is another option. There are so many ways you can take this project and make it fit your personality.

Hey! I know this is an older post but thought I'd share that a neighbor of mine made one of these and placed a circular sander on the metal for a few seconds in various places to give it a brushed circle look, it looked so great! I just love your site!